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Emerald Waterways Launch in New Zealand

A selection of the best European river cruise destinations is now available to the local market, with our exceptional value introductory offers now available on 2019 cruise departure dates.

We have just announced the establishment of our Auckland office, which is offering New Zealanders the first choice of a selected range of popular European river cruise options. Available direct to the local market for the first time, our special May launch offers include the classic 15-day Splendours of Europe river cruise between Amsterdam and Budapest, with cruise-only prices starting from just $4,995 per person, including savings of up to $2,250 per person until 31 May 2018.

Emerald Waterways Director, Sales & Marketing New Zealand, Angus Crichton says as an introduction to the local market, Emerald Waterways has chosen some of the highlights of its cruise network in Europe. “We are giving our new Kiwi customers the first choice of some of the most popular river cruising options our expert product specialists have developed – from classic cruises to fresh new itineraries designed to allow our guests to discover the magic of Europe’s grand waterways in comfort and style.”

“Our latest itineraries for 2019 are available to the local market for the first time with pricing that offers exceptional value. We know New Zealanders are discerning and appreciate affordable luxury so we're expecting more people than ever will be taking the opportunity to experience everything that’s special about river cruising when they cruise with Emerald Waterways.”

We currently offer cruise-only pricing which enables guests to consult their preferred travel agent to secure the best discounted airfares for travel to Europe (or use their frequent flyer points via their preferred airline).

“With the EmeraldVALUE promise, our guests can be reassured that everything they need on a river cruise – from airport transfers, onboard tips and gratuities, all onboard meals, and complimentary wine and beer served with lunch and dinner – is included. Daily guided tours and specially selected experiences and activities are also included in the price of their trip,” says Angus Crichton.

During May, the 8 Day Jewels of the Rhine Cruise – priced from $3,170 per person including special launch savings of up to $2,380 per couple – focuses on the Rhine River, from the Netherlands to Switzerland and features visits to Strasbourg, Heidelberg and the magnificent Black Forest region of Germany.

“New Zealanders will also have the option to choose a very special combined river cruise through France and Portugal – to experience the best of both countries.”

European river cruises also now available include the 15 Day Splendours of Europe cruise on the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers, taking passengers through the heart of Europe from Amsterdam to Budapest. Guests can explore 15 cities, towns and villages, including Cologne and Vienna, and cruise the castle-lined Rhine Gorge. Cruise-only prices start from just $4,995 per person – with savings of up to $4,500 per couple during May only.

“Each of these cruises has been carefully designed to offer unique insights into the local history, culture and even tastes of the region. Our team of professional cruise directors, our guides and members of our English-speaking crew offer the benefit of local knowledge – and they love to share the best aspects of their regions. We also believe food plays an important part in your travel experience, so our culinary team and onboard chefs create daily menus from the fresh produce of the area you are touring – matched, of course, with local wines,” says Angus Crichton.

Mr Crichton says river cruising is rising quickly in popularity, not only because it takes travellers to the heart of some of Europe’s best cities, towns and historic regions, but because of the comfort and convenience it provides.

“Emerald Waterway’s seven purpose-built Star-Ships make up one of the newest and certainly the most stylish river cruising fleets in Europe. Every detail, from the generously appointed suites with innovative all-weather balcony, to the heated swimming pool with retractable roof that converts into a cinema, to the onboard gymnasium and wellness centre is designed to make guests feel like they are cruising in a stylish, luxury boutique hotel,” says Angus Crichton.

“The small group aboard each ship, with guests numbering from between 112 and 182 passengers (depending on the cruise ship), allows our staff to provide extra care and attention to making each passenger’s experience special. And little details, like the identical appointment of suites from ship to ship, mean that many of our guests return year-after-year to enjoy other river cruises on our network from the comfort of their favourite suite.”

Mr Crichton says a choice of activities offered for each cruise allows guests to experience Europe in their own way and at their own pace. “Our exclusive EmeraldPLUS programme provides authentic adventures that seek to avoid the typical tourist hotspots and provide a genuine experience of the local community and culture. For more active guests, who want to explore their environment on a walking excursion or borrow one of the onboard bicycles to tour a region, or even canoe on Portugal’s Douro River, we also have the EmeraldACTIVE programme.”

“Ultimately, though, what makes it so special for our guests – and one of the key reasons people from around the world keep coming back to Emerald Waterways – is the exceptional value,” says Angus Crichton.

Call our expert reservations team in New Zealand on 0800 330 340 to learn more.